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Irish Beef and Guinness Stew

Irish Beef and Guinness Stew


  • Author: Crystal
  • Total Time: 3 hours
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

A hearty Irish stew that combines tender beef, smoky bacon, and the deep, malty flavor of Guinness, perfect for cozy evenings.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2.5 lb (1.25 kg) beef chuck, boneless short rib or any other slow‑cooking beef (no bone)
  • 3/4 tsp each salt and black pepper
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 onions, chopped (brown, white or yellow)
  • 6 oz (180g) bacon, speck or pancetta, diced
  • 3 tbsp all‑purpose flour (for gluten‑free, substitute with cornstarch)
  • 440 ml (14.9 oz) Guinness beer (Note 1)
  • 4 tbsp tomato paste
  • 3 cups (750 ml) chicken or beef broth (or beef broth – Note 4)
  • 3 carrots, peeled and cut into 1.25 cm (½ in) thick pieces
  • 2 large celery stalks, cut into 2 cm (1 in) pieces
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 3 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme leaves)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium‑high heat. Brown the beef chunks in batches, ensuring they develop a rich crust. Remove and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, add bacon and cook until crisp. Add onions and garlic, sauté until softened.
  3. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir for 1‑2 minutes to form a light roux.
  4. Pour in Guinness beer, scraping up browned bits from the bottom. Add tomato paste and stir until combined.
  5. Return the beef to the pot. Add carrots, celery, bay leaves, and thyme. Pour in broth and bring to a gentle boil.
  6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2‑2.5 hours, or until the meat is tender and the sauce has thickened.
  7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove bay leaves and thyme stems before serving.
  8. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.

Notes

Tip: For a richer flavor, marinate the beef overnight. Substitute any stout beer if Guinness isn’t available. Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days, reheating gently on the stove.

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Category: B
  • Method: Braising
  • Cuisine: Irish

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: beef stew, Guinness, comfort food, slow cooking